From January 19th to 21st, 2026, Barcelona will host the next ICE World Gaming Forum (WGF). Leading industry businesses, regulators, and government agencies will gather to discuss current trends and challenges facing the global gambling market.
Key Details of the Large-Scale Event
The conference will be held at the Fira Gran Via complex, alongside the ICE exhibition and the iGB Affiliate meeting. The organisers are preparing convenient opportunities for exchanging ideas and fostering partnerships.
The 2026 edition will offer guests a VIP club-style area, a networking garden, and concierge services. These opportunities create an atmosphere conducive to effective interaction and stronger cooperation.
The Forum will focus on 6 key topics:
- combating illegal gaming platforms;
- development of the European ground sector;
- collaborations in the sports betting segment;
- a personalised approach in the gambling industry;
- proven ways of advancing lottery technologies;
- protection tools and measures from cyber threats.
Let us take a closer look at the central discussion panels:
Strategies for Eliminating Shadow Markets
One of the main conference sections will focus on methods for confronting illicit brands and ensuring customer safety. Experts will shed light on how uncertified companies exploit cryptocurrency instruments and tax loopholes to undermine the regulation.
Participants will also learn about the ways authorities are finding to maintain the optimal balance between oversight, technological advancement, and responsible gambling principles. Particular attention will be paid to the growth of grey zones in the dynamically developing regions of Latin America and Africa.
Growth of Physical Casinos and Sportsbooks
The panel dedicated to the European land-based sector will examine how gaming establishments are adapting to the new reality. Specialists will discuss the importance of expanding entertainment and hospitality offerings to enhance customer engagement and satisfaction.
The section dedicated to bookmaker partnerships will explore the role of collaboration with data suppliers and AI corporations. Speakers will explain how modern technologies are transforming gambling advertising strategies and fairness monitoring systems.
The panel will also focus on the rapid growth of eSports and the development of markets in the Middle East and the Americas. In these destinations, transparency and responsible gaming are becoming increasingly important.
iGaming and Lotteries: Embracing Innovation
Sessions on personalising player experiences in online casinos and similar platforms will demonstrate how entrepreneurs are implementing artificial intelligence and data analysis. These insights aim to help business people create a secure and tailored user journey.
The section dedicated to lottery technologies will address the implementation of internet and hybrid entertainment formats. These models are gaining popularity among younger audiences. Participants will also discuss the legislative changes necessary for the development of this area.
Cybersecurity and Audience Trust
A separate part of the program will be devoted to the emerging threats, bonus abuse, and ways to protect projects from fraudulent activities. Since 2022, the number of attacks on gambling portals has increased by 70%, with total losses reaching €1 billion.
Companies are actively using biometric identification systems and AI-based solutions to minimise the risk of scams. An additional benefit of this approach includes enhancing user trust, as modern players value transparency and safety above all.
Exchanging Business Strategies and Ideas
ICE Barcelona’s Head of Content described the Forum as the largest international platform for bringing together leaders of the global gaming community. According to Damien Ashton-Wellman's statement, the event unites senior executives, government agencies, regulators, and traders. They can discuss experiences, strategic priorities, and the latest technological solutions.
The representative emphasised that the 2026 agenda was developed in collaboration with top analysts to reflect key challenges, opportunities, and trends across all gambling verticals. Last year, over 1,200 delegates from 79 countries attended the meeting, reaffirming its position as one of the world’s premier hubs for professional networking and decision-making.
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